JPH1111512A - Unit for containing and applying liquid - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To automatically facilitate use of the unit, by providing an end which can permanently contact with a liquid in a container and also providing an applicator at the opposite side of the end and further providing a block made from a partly compressive and absorptive material in the applicator. SOLUTION: An applicator 10 is formed as a foam block 12 and one end 13 thereof is protruded into a container 2. And the applicator 10 is provided with the second end 14 contained in the inside of the container neck in the closed state of the unit. The applicator 10 is partly compressed by the pressing force of the cover 5 in the closed state. When the cover is removed on using it, the compression of the foam block is released and the applied surface 15 is exposed to the outside of a device 1. And at the same time, a pumping action of a product P is brought by the expansion resulting from the release of compression and the product P reaches the application surface 15. In this way, the applicator 10 can be used automatically and rapidly.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a unit for containing and applying a liquid product. The present invention is best suited for containing and applying cosmetics such as nail paints, lipsticks, oils, gel-type oils, and the like. In addition to the field of cosmetics, the present invention can be applied to fields of adhesives, correction fluids, household stain removers, and the like. A liquid product having a viscosity between the viscosity of water and the viscosity of oil, and hence the viscosity of gel type oil,
It is suitable for use in the present invention.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art There is known a stain-removing pad type device constituted by a product container provided with a neck. In this case, the upper part of the neck is provided with an applicator in the form of a thin foam pad. An applicator is applied to the surface to be treated, for example, skin or fabric. Because the applicator pad is limited to the top of the neck,
Applying the product to the pad requires turning the container upside down and compressing the pad surface several times. This results in "pumping" and the product sticking to the pad. That is, the pressure applied to the applicator causes the valve separating the applicator and the product to open in the closed state. Such applicators are typically in the form of a polymer that dries quickly when not in use. It is easy to dry because the polymer is too far away from the solvent surrounding the product contained in the container, and
This is because they are physically isolated from the liquid by type means or pump-type means.

[0003] In other products, such as polish-type, the applicator pad is isolated from the product by a valve that still accelerates the drying of the applicator. The valve sometimes renders the applicator unusable if it has not been used for a long period of time, or it must be cleaned before it can be used.

[0004] Furthermore, applicators are known, such as in the form of a foam block soaked in the product to be applied. Such an applicator is wiped at the neck of the bottle or by a mechanical wiping device after being immersed in the product and then applied to the surface to be treated. The applicator is usually fixed on the top. However, in some cases, it is difficult to use. For example, if the user carries it, the applicator and the container are separate, which means that
In some situations, this means that the container must be held in one hand and the product applied with another hand.

[0005] EP-A-0 721 74
No. 8 discloses an applicator for viscous cosmetics. The applicator can transition between a body that forms a container for cosmetics, and a closed position where the applicator member is completely contained within the body and an open position where the applicator member protrudes out of the applicator body. Applicator member. In this case, the applicator can be closed by the lid when the applicator member is located inside. Also, a closing means is provided to prevent any liquid flow between the container and the applicator in the closed state of the device. Such a closure means may allow the solvent evaporating above the surface of the product to contact the applicator. This can limit the risk of drying, but at the same time does not enable the applicator to be used simply by removing the lid.

[0006] EP-A-435 758
The article discloses an applicator for perfume and other products. The applicator comprises a bottle defining a base and a permeable lid at the end opposite the base, for applying the product to the skin, in particular. The product is supplied to the permeable lid by a capillary effect, in particular by a wick or a capillary tube. One problem associated with such a configuration is related to feeding to the end of the applicator. The supply in this case is essentially due to the capillary effect, and even if one wants to apply continuously, one has to wait a predetermined time from one application to the next. In addition, this type of delivery method allows the product to be delivered to the application surface, especially in the case of products containing pigments, such as those found in the cosmetics field such as mascara, nail paints and the like. Can not.

[0007]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is as follows.
One purpose is automatic under all circumstances,
The object of the present invention is to provide a receiving and applying unit that is clean and easy to use.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an applicator that does not substantially dry, so that it is always usable, even after prolonged periods of inactivity. The object of the present invention is to provide a housing application unit.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a reliable system that is inexpensive to manufacture.

[0010] Other objects will become more apparent from the following description.

In the present invention, the object is to provide a unit for containing and applying a liquid product, the container having an axis X, containing the product, and having an opening; Detachable means for hermetically closing the opening; a first end mounted inside the container and permanently contactable with the product within the container, and the first end An applicator having a second end opposite the first end, the second end protruding from the opening to the outside of the container for applying the product. Forming an application surface that is axially movable between a position and a second position that is sealingly contained within the container, wherein the applicator is used, inter alia, when the product is applied. Or the application When the data is in the second position,
It is obtained by manufacturing a receiving and applying unit comprising at least one block of an absorbent material that can be at least partially compressed. In the second position, the application surface is preferably contained within the neck.

Thus, when the foam block has been decompressed after application, when the cap capable of compressing the foam block is opened, or at all other compressions, the foam block is replaced by the foam block. The product is pumped through open or semi-open cells forming As a result, the applicator is always full of product and therefore always ready for the next application. In other words, in the present invention, the applicator substantially holds the product by compression / decompression of the compressible and absorbable portion of the applicator. The product can be pumped by using an applicator having an open or semi-open cell appropriate for the size of any pigment contained within the product.
This is not possible with conventional applicators of the "felt" type or the core type.

The term "permanently in contact with liquid" refers to the application position (first position) and the storage position (second position).
At any time, at least the first end of the applicator is in contact with the liquid contained in the container;
Or, it means that it is in a situation where it can be contacted.
In other words, at least the first end of the applicator
Means not physically isolated by valves, pumps or other blocking means. This means that the first end is impregnated or connected via a core-type member impregnated with the product, or simply in the same volume (above the free surface of the product). The first end must always be placed in contact with the product, based on its physical containment, so that whenever it is moved, such as when carrying the unit. Means Because the applicator is provided with at least one foam-type block with open or semi-open cells capable of pumping liquids, the product is always introduced into the applicator, or Even so, it is always available. The actual pumping of the product is, in principle, mechanical (compression / expansion of the foam). Furthermore, in the case of certain compounds, due to the fluidity of the compound, by capillary or surface tension effects on cells in the foam block or other cellular or other porous material, The solvent moves toward the surface of the applicator. Thereby, drying of the applicator can be minimized even for a long non-use period.

[0014] Advantageously, the container comprises a body, a first end of the body being closed by a base and a second end of the body.
The end is surrounded by the neck, the opening is defined by the free edge of the neck, and the applicator is at least partially located inside the neck. The inner surface of the neck may include at least one groove, for example, in the form of a spiral. Thereby, the air intake passage can be improved. In this case, air intake
It is also tolerated by the presence of open or semi-open cells that make up all or part of the applicator. The neck is axis X
Can have a different axis. Alternatively, the container consists of a tube that is closed by a weld line. The applicator can be attached through an opening in the tube or through the base before occlusion. In some cases, the pressure provided on the flexible wall of the tube can improve the loading of the product on the applicator. The loading of the product on the applicator can be improved, especially if part of the applicator is compressed / expanded through the wall of the tube.

The first end may be located at the same height as the lower edge of the neck. However, preferably, the first end projects substantially into the interior of the container. In particular, it extends through the lower part of the neck and into the body of the container. Generally speaking, in the uncompressed state, the height of the applicator is preferably greater than or equal to the height of the neck, and more preferably greater than or equal to 1.5 times the height of the neck. Thus, the amount of air present between the applicator and the product is substantially further reduced. This, together with good occlusive sealing properties, eliminates any problem of applicator drying. The applicator is actually held in a product-filled atmosphere, and the applicator itself is in fact product-filled. Thus, the applicator is always available. In the application position, the product does not drip, even when the applicator is filled with product. The application is clean and the desired amount can be applied. The application is performed by applying the application surface to the surface to be treated. The product, by at least partially compressing the compressible block of the applicator,
To be released. By compressing the applicator, much or only slightly, a suitable amount of product for the user can be applied to the surface. The stiffness of the foam is such that the pressure required to produce a predetermined maximum amount of product is less than the force required to move the application surface from a first position (application position) to a second position (return position). It is set to be small. After the product has been applied,
The applicator, as it is, is used to spread the product evenly over the surface to be treated. Such spreading is obtained based on mere capillary contact by moving the application surface over the surface to be treated. This allows the product to be spread out in the form of a film, based on the action of surface tension provided by the liquid between the application surface and the surface to be treated. This is done without necessarily applying a minimum pressure to the applicator.
Therefore, depending on the ratio of open cells or semi-open cells in the applicator, it is possible to adjust the outflow amount of the product according to the fluidity of the product.

In a first embodiment, the container has a base opposite the opening, and the first end is located substantially near the base. This allows the first end to be in permanent contact with the product. Whenever the container is opened and after the applicator has been compressed to apply the product to the surface to be treated, the foam block expands. This causes pumping of the product towards the application surface. In addition, between two subsequent applications, the solvent contained in the product is pumped to a certain extent into the applicator by the capillary effect and the surface tension effect up to the application surface.

In another embodiment, the first end is located above the level of the product in the container. The contact between the applicator and the product takes place very naturally and automatically when the user is transported, for example in a user's handbag and when the unit is carried. Impregnation of the applicator, in particular with a solvent, is possible by fixing a core-type member to be impregnated in the product to the applicator.

[0018] Advantageously, the container comprises a base on the side opposite the opening, the body connecting the base and the neck. The base is axially movable with respect to the body, which facilitates contact between the product and the applicator and facilitates introduction of the product into the applicator. For example, the body is connected to the base via a telescopic "bellows" -type member. The pressure applied to the base can compress at least a portion of the applicator, and relieving the pressure allows the applicator to absorb the product.

The applicator may be fixed relative to the neck in an intermediate region between the first end and the second end, wherein the movement from the first position to the second position is effected by the detachable closing means. Corresponding to the opening being closed by
This is caused by axial compression of at least a portion of the applicator located between the application surface and the intermediate region. Without limitation,
For example, the applicator is secured to the neck by gluing, welding, or other suitable means (fins, tabs, etc.). Also, for example, a bead is formed on the inner surface of the neck of the device so as to be able to accommodate a groove provided circumferentially on the applicator.

In another embodiment, the applicator is slidably mounted within the neck and movement from one of the first and second positions to the other is caused by axial movement of the entire applicator. It is. Such a sliding movement of the applicator can be provided by providing the applicator with ballast means. By the transition from the “head-up” state to the “head-down” state of the housing application unit, the application surface is set to the first position.
The application surface is the second position. Preferably, the ballast means comprises a weight fixed to the outer surface of the applicator within the container. It also advantageously forms mixing means for homogenizing the product. in this case,
The ballast is set so that the force required to insert the applicator into the container is greater than the applicator compressive force required to release the desired amount of product. Advantageously, means are provided for fixing the applicator in the first position, so that the application unit can be used in any position, including head-up.

In still another embodiment, the container comprises:
A base, wherein the first end is disposed near the base;
The body connects the base and the neck, the base is axially movable with respect to the body, and the applicator is slidably mounted within the neck, selecting the axial spacing between the base and the neck Means is provided for causing the applicator to move from one of the first position and the second position to the other to substantially move the first end of the applicator to the base. Are provided for holding in the vicinity of. Therefore,
The base can be connected to the body via a bellows part. Alternatively, the base can be formed from an elastically deformable flexible membrane.

Advantageously, the means for selectively changing the axial spacing between the base and the body comprises a mounting base which is screwed onto the body of the unit. By increasing the degree of screwing, the axial length of the container can be reduced and the second end of the applicator can be protruded through the neck of the device.

The means for holding the first end of the applicator in abutment against the base may comprise elastic restoring means, the first end of which is located near the neck. Pressed against the located area, the second end of the elastic restoring means is pressed against the area fixed to the applicator. For example, such an elastic restoring means may be a coil spring.

[0024] The applicator may be mounted within the neck via an intermediate member mounted within the neck. This type of intermediate member can be mounted in the neck by force or by snap fitting, screwing, bonding, welding, and the like.

According to an advantageous feature of the invention, the applicator is mounted for angular rotation with respect to the axis of the applicator or with respect to a plane passing through the axis of the applicator. As an example, the applicator is mounted via a rotation mechanism.

Advantageously, the applicator comprises at least one foam selected from polyurethane, polyethylene, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polyether, NBR (natural rubber), SBR (synthetic rubber), foam and the like. It is configured with three blocks. The nature of the form and the size of the cells that make up the form
The choice is made depending on the flowability of the material to be applied, in particular the viscosity of the material and the surface tension of the material, and on the desired flow rate of the product.

[0027] Preferably, the applicator contains at least 10% open or semi-open cells.

In another embodiment, the applicator is comprised of a stack of foam blocks of different types and / or different densities and / or different thicknesses. In this feature, in particular, it is possible to bring softness to the application, and it is easy to adjust the amount of the applied product. Also, the applicator can be adapted for products with different fluidity. Alternatively, the applicator comprises at least one foam block and, inter alia, a sintered material, sintered type polyvinyl chloride, ethylene vinyl acetate, felt,
And at least one block made of a material selected from among the above materials and capable of pumping a product. In the latter configuration, it is preferable that the foam block is disposed in contact with the application surface. As described above, the presence of the compressible block allows for adjustment of the amount of product applied to the surface to be treated and, in addition, allows the product to be pumped upon expansion.

The surface to be coated can have various shapes according to the surface to be treated. For example, the application surface is concave,
The shape may be convex, flat, oblique, or double inclined.

According to another advantageous feature of the invention, the application surface is covered by a woven, perforated plastic or felt-type permeable cover, which, alternatively or in combination, Covered by a bristle-like coating. Alternatively, the form
It can be used directly as a coating surface. Good coating quality can be obtained, in particular, with surfaces where the cells are cut on the coating surface. Satisfactory cut quality using laser or water jet,
It can be obtained by cutting the foam. The cut edges of the cells are oriented perpendicular to the application surface, i.e. are oriented axially to the applicator, and act like the bristles of a paint brush I do. This type of cut edge has an enhanced product holding function and smoothness on the surface to be treated.

If the application surface is covered with a bristle coating, the bristle coating may be configured with soft hair fibers of different diameters and / or different types and / or different heights. Alternatively, it can be configured with a mixture of such fluffy fibers. The cells have a relatively large average size (typically 200 μm to 3 mm, preferably 700 μm to 2 m
m, more preferably 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm), it has been shown that very good results are obtained with foams in which the application surface is covered with a bristle-like coating.

The application volume and product flow can be increased by forming a narrow channel or one or more slots (eg, in the form of a cloth) that passes axially through the center of the applicator.

The container can be made of metal, glass, or a plastic material selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and the like. In the case of a plastic material, it can be manufactured by injection molding, extrusion blow molding, or simple injection.

A ball type means can be provided inside the container, which can promote uniformity of the product and facilitate the impregnation of the applicator.

When the applicator is axially free in the neck, the first end can be pressed against the base of the container by a spring (eg made of plastic). According to this feature, the compression force applied to the applicator when the cap is attached can be reduced. The spring is selected such that the force required to compress the spring is greater than the required compression force of the foam depending on the desired volume of the product.

In another variant, the unit according to the invention comprises two applicators mounted head-to-tail inside the container. In this case, the container will have a body such that the first end is surrounded by the first neck and the second end is surrounded by the second neck. Each neck defines a first opening and a second opening in which each of the first and second applicators is mounted. The operation of each applicator is the same as described above. This type of configuration is available in different sizes and / or
Alternatively, it is particularly advantageous in that multiple applicators having different application characteristics can be used. For example, in the case of nail paint, for relatively large fingernails,
It is possible to use a first applicator with a large cross-section and use a small cross-section applicator for a relatively small fingernail.

The product can be cosmetics such as nail paints or lipsticks, or adhesives, oils, gel-type oils, correction fluids ("Typex"), stain removers, and the like.

[0038]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Apart from the above arrangement, the present invention includes several other arrangements. For these,
The following is described through non-limiting exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIGS. 1A to 1C are various views showing a first embodiment of the unit according to the present invention. FIG.
(A) and FIG. 2 (b) correspond to FIG. 1 (a) and FIG.
It is a figure showing signs that nail paint is applied using a device shown in (b). FIG. 3 shows FIGS. 1 (a) to 1 (c).
It is a figure showing a modification of the embodiment. 4 (a) to 4
(E) is a figure which shows various shapes of the application surface in the accommodation application unit by this invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing another embodiment of the device according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing still another embodiment of the device according to the present invention. 7 (a) and 7 (b) are diagrams showing still another embodiment of the device according to the present invention. FIG. 8 shows a further embodiment of the device according to the invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a modification of the embodiment of FIG.

FIGS. 1 (a) to 1 (c) show various views of a first embodiment of a housing and coating unit 1 according to the present invention. In this configuration, the accommodation coating unit 1
Is in the form of a lipstick-type or eyeliner-type case, which basically comprises a container 2 consisting of a body 6. One end of the body 6 is closed by the base 3. The other end of the body 6 is a neck 4. The neck 4 has a threaded or snap-fit bead on its outer surface for detachably attaching a lid or cover 5 capable of sealingly closing an opening 8 defined by the free edge of the neck 4. (Of type).

As shown more clearly in FIGS. 1 (b) and 1 (c), the applicator 10 is fixed inside the neck 4. For this purpose, an annular bead 9 is provided on the inner surface of the neck. The annular bead 9 can accommodate an annular groove 11 (substantially provided near the center of the applicator) provided on the outer surface of the applicator. Thereby, in the neck,
The applicator can be axially fixed. Alternatively, the applicator can be secured within the neck by a system of fins spaced evenly on the inner surface of the neck. The applicator 10 is in the form of a foam block 12, with one end 13 projecting into the interior of the container 2 (substantially up to about half of the body forming the container). Thereby, the end 13
Are located above the level of the product P in the container 2.

The applicator 10 has a second end 14 which is accommodated inside the neck of the container when the unit is closed as shown in FIG. 1 (c). FIG.
In (c), the lid 5 is shown attached to the device, sealingly closing the opening 8 defined by the free edge of the neck 4. For this purpose, a sealing member 17 is provided inside the lid 5. In this state, the applicator is
And, in particular, in the case of the application surface 1 in this embodiment by the pressing force exerted on the applicator surface by the sealing member 17.
5 and the area fixed between the applicator neck and the fixing area is compressed). The application surface is
It is located inside the neck 4. In the container, balls 16 are arranged to homogenize the product P.

Typically, the applicator is 2 mm to 3 mm.
Has a diameter of 5 mm, preferably 3 mm to 20 m
m. The height of the applicator in the uncompressed state can vary from 5 mm to 150 mm.

In FIG. 1B, the device is a lid 5
Are shown removed. Above the opening, the foam block is depressurized to pump the product. After opening, the foam block
No longer compressed. In this state, the second end 14 of the foam projects outside the container 2 above the free edge of the neck 4 defining the opening 8.
The second end 14 of the applicator 10 defines an application surface 15. The shape of the application surface 15 is selected according to the shape of the untreated surface. In the illustrated example, the application surface 15 has an oblique shape. For other shapes,
This will be described later with reference to FIGS. 5 (a) to 5 (e).

In using the coating unit according to the present invention, the user first removes the lid 5. As a result, the compression of the foam block 12 forming the applicator is released (the foam block 12 expands), and the application surface 15 is exposed outside the device 1. With the expansion due to the decompression, the product P is pumped, and the product P reaches the application surface 15. Thus, the applicator is fully supplied with the product and the applicator is ready for use. Even if the device is turned upside down for product application, the device is completely sealed due to the presence of the product-filled applicator within the neck of the container. In such an embodiment, the applicator is arranged in permanent contact with the product, as is typical, for example, when the unit is stored and carried in a purse.

The application operation is schematically illustrated in FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b). In these figures, application of nail paint to a user's nail is illustrated. To perform the application, the user turns the application surface 15 upside down, above the nail. Then, pressure is applied to the applicator according to the desired product quantity. With this pressure,
Partial compression of the applicator is provided, facilitating product outflow (FIG. 2 (a)). After releasing the pressure applied to the applicator, the product is spread using the application surface (FIG. 2B). The product is pumped by releasing the pressure of the applicator against the skin. The applicator can immediately make the next use. By moving the application surface over the surface to be treated, as described above, the product can be spread using mere capillary contact. This allows the product to be spread in the form of a film by the action of surface tension through the liquid provided between the application surface and the surface to be treated. In this case, only a slight pressure needs to be applied to the applicator.

FIG. 3 shows a modification of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 (a) to 1 (c). In this embodiment, since the compressible bellows-type member 20 is provided between the base 3 and the body 6 of the container 2, the impregnation of the applicator is facilitated. For devices formed from thermoplastic materials, the bellows
Obtained when the container is molded as a whole. Therefore, when applying the product, before opening the lid 5,
The user applies pressure to the base 3 one or more times. This has the effect of moving the product P into contact with the applicator and of compressing at least a portion of the applicator. By releasing the pressure applied to the base, the applicator is decompressed, causing pumping of the product. Thereafter, the lid is removed and used in the same manner as described with reference to FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b). Also in this case, by opening the lid 5, the end of the applicator which has been compressed in the container can be released and the product can be pumped. Similarly, decompression of the applicator after each application allows a predetermined amount of product to be pumped into the applicator. This embodiment is suitable for more viscous fluid products. In all embodiments, the applicator cross section is circular. Applicators have different cross-sections (circular, triangular, square, oval, teardrop,
, Etc.).

FIGS. 4A to 4E show the application surface 15.
Various shapes are shown. In FIG. 4A, the application surface 15 has an oblique shape. In FIG. 4B, the application surface has a convex shape in the form of a dome. In this case, the application surface is covered by a bristle-like coating 21. The bristle-like coating may comprise soft hair fibers of different types and / or different lengths and / or different diameters. Alternatively, a mixture of such soft hair fibers can be provided. The bristle-like coating 21 affects the softness of the application and the amount of product to be applied, depending on the choice of the fibers used. FIG.
In (c), the application surface 15 has a double inclined shape. In FIG. 4D, the shape of the application surface is
It is slightly concave. In FIG. 4 (e), the application surface has a substantially flat shape and is orthogonal to the axis of the unit.

FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the accommodation and application unit according to the present invention. In this embodiment,
The container is in the form of a container (eg, made of glass). The applicator is impregnated in the product P,
It has a first end 13 substantially abutting against the base 3. As in the previous embodiment, in the closed state, the lid 5 is pressed onto the application surface, thereby at least partially compressing the applicator. The applicator is mounted in the neck as in FIGS. 1 (a) -1 (c). That is, the applicator is mounted in a bead 9 / groove 11 configuration or by a finned system. However, the applicator is not mounted directly in the neck, but rather on an intermediate member 22 mounted inside the neck. This intermediate member 22 can be mounted in the neck by any suitable technique (adhesion, welding, snap fitting, etc.). With such a configuration, greater flexibility can be given to the shape of the application end member. Furthermore, unlike the embodiment of FIGS. 1 (a) to 1 (c), the applicator consists of a stack of foam blocks 12, 12 ', 12 "glued at the ends. Blocks 12, 12 ', 1
2 "means different types and / or different hardnesses,
And / or may be of different thicknesses and / or of different densities. Therefore, the load and the flowability of the applicator 10 can be affected.
In addition, this property allows the applicator to be easily adapted to the fluidity of the product. Alternatively, a foam block can be used in combination with one or more blocks of another material that can pump the product P by capillary effects or by surface tension effects. For example, a foam block can be used in combination with a sintered block, a block made of polyvinyl chloride, a block made of ethylene vinyl acetate, or a block with felt. The block in contact with the application surface 15 is preferably composed of a block of compressible foam. Through a very narrow channel (not shown)
Alternatively, it is still more advantageous that the flow of the applicator is enhanced by providing axial flow through one or more narrow slots. The operation of the device according to this embodiment is illustrated in FIGS.
The operation is the same as that of the embodiment shown in FIG. Therefore, detailed description is omitted.

In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the applicator is mounted in the neck 4 via an intermediate member 22 which functions as a pivot 23. With such a pivot 23, the applicator 10
Can rotate about the axis X of the bottle. Due to this characteristic, hand movement during application can be facilitated. The container can be made of metal, or
Can be made of glass, or polyethylene,
It can be made of a thermoplastic material selected from polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and the like. Other parts of the device and the operation of the device are the same as those described above.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b), the foam is mounted so as to be slidable in the neck 4. In this embodiment, the movement from the application position (FIG. 7A) to the “return” position (FIG. 7B) and vice versa from the return position to the application position are performed by the neck of the bottle 1. Within 4,
This is done by sliding the applicator. For this purpose, the applicator is provided with a weight 24 which is arranged inside the container while being fixed to the applicator. The weight of the applicator is 3mm ~ 1
It is mounted on the applicator so as to be movable over 5 mm, preferably over 5 mm to 10 mm. The weight can be secured by gluing or other suitable means. When the user tries to apply the product P to the surface, the user removes the cap 5 and turns the bottle upside down. As a result, the applicator moves downward under the influence of the weight 24, and the application surface 15 projects and is exposed from the opening 8. The surface of the weight opposite to the bottle neck 4 has a truncated cone shape that can be fitted into the truncated cone portion 25 provided at the lower portion of the neck 4. Thereby, in the coating state, the applicator can be held and fixed. By this holding and fixing, at least a part of the applicator can be compressed and the product can be applied, and subsequently, when the pressure application to the application surface is released, the product is pumped. It can be carried out. In this case, the applicator can be used regardless of the bottle situation. The application method is the same as the method described with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B. After use, the user can return the applicator into the bottle neck by applying pressure on the application surface 15 with the lid 5. The applicator will return to the base of the container 2 due to the effect of the weight. The seal is provided only by the presence of the foam applicator in the bottle neck 4. However, auxiliary means can be provided to improve the sealing.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the applicator 10 can be moved to the application position by the pressure exerted against the base 3 of the container. For this purpose, the base 3 is connected to the body 6 of the container 2 via a bellows-type structure 26. The end 13 of the applicator abuts the base 3. A coil spring 27 is provided on the applicator.
The first end of the spring comprises the body 6 and the neck 4 of the container 2.
Between the shoulders. The other end of the spring is pressed against an overhang 28 attached to the applicator. Overhang 28
Can include a mounting member, for example, bonded to the applicator. Alternatively, the overhang portion 28
May have an annular special thickness formed in the applicator. In the case of a foam, this thickness portion is formed with sufficient hardness. Mounting base 29
Is screwed onto the body 6 of the container 2. Body 6
, The base 3 is lifted, the bellows is compressed, the applicator is raised into the neck, the spring 27 is compressed, and
The application surface is exposed from the opening 8. As appropriate, depending on the ratio of foam stiffness to spring force, a portion of the applicator can be compressed. In this case, the applicator is used in the same way as described with reference to FIGS. 2 (a) and 2 (b). After use, the user moves the mounting base in the opposite direction. As a result, the base is moved to the restricted position until the body 6
Move away from. Due to the effect of elastic restoring force,
The applicator returns into the base of the container 2. This return causes, if appropriate, decompression of the compressed part of the applicator, resulting in pumping of the product. The spring can be mounted in an expanded or compressed state. Alternatively, the end of the applicator may be fixed to the inner surface of the base 3. In the embodiment shown, the applicator is not substantially compressed when the lid 5 is mounted. In a modification, at least one end 14 of the applicator can be configured to be compressed when the lid is mounted. This can provide an additional pumping effect when removing the lid. This feature can be applied to the embodiment of FIGS. 7A and 7B.

FIG. 9 shows a modification of the embodiment of FIG. In this modification, the base 3
The bellows 26 is omitted because the mounting member 30 is formed of an elastic type elastically deformable material. The mounting member 30 is screwed, glued, snap-fitted, welded, or
It can be manufactured by two-shot injection molding. The use of the unit is the same as that of the embodiment of FIG. 8, and therefore no further description is necessary here.

The receiving and applying unit according to the invention is particularly advantageous in that compounds which require high humidity in order to avoid coagulation, such as, in particular, polymer-based compounds, can be used. This is due, inter alia, to the applicator being permanently moistened. In a conventional device, such a compound will inevitably dry.

In the above description, reference has been made to preferred embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the spirit of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 shows various views of a first embodiment of the unit according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which nail paint is applied using the device shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a modification of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a view showing various shapes of a coating surface in a storage and coating unit according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the device according to the invention.

FIG. 6 shows a further embodiment of the device according to the invention.

FIG. 7 shows a further embodiment of the device according to the invention.

FIG. 8 shows a further embodiment of the device according to the invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a modification of the embodiment of FIG. 8;

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Storage / application unit 2 Container 3 Base 4 Neck 5 Lid (Removable means) 6 Body 8 Opening 9 Annular bead 10 Applicator 11 Annular groove 12 Block 12 'Block 12 "Block 13 First end 14 Second end 15 Application Surface 16 Ball 20 "Bellows" -type member 21 Coarse coating 22 Intermediate member 23 Pivot (rotation mechanism) 24 Weight (ballast means) 25 Truncated cone 26 "Bellows" -type member 27 Spring 28 Overhang 29 Mounting base 30 Mounting member, flexible membrane P Liquid product X axis

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁶ Identification code FI A45D 34/04 520 A45D 34/04 520A 520B 520C 525 525A 540 540 B05C 17/00 B05C 17/00

Claims (39)

[Claims] 1. A unit (1) for containing and applying a liquid product (P), comprising a shaft (X), containing said product, and
A container (2) having an opening (8); detachable means (5) for hermetically closing the opening; and being attached to the interior of the container and being permanent with the product in the container. A first end portion (13) that can be contacted with the outside,
And an applicator (10) having a second end (14) opposite the first end, wherein the second end is for applying the product. A first position protruding from the opening (8) to the outside of the container, a second position housed in the container (2) hermetically,
Forming an application surface (15) that is axially movable between the applicator, especially when the product is applied, or when the applicator is in the second position. , At least one block (12, 1, 1) of an absorbent material that can be at least partially compressed.
2 ′, 12 ″). 2. The absorbent material according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material has a thickness of 200 μm to 3 mm.
2. The container applying unit according to claim 1, further comprising an open cell having an average size of: 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material has a thickness of 700 μm to 2 mm.
3. The accommodation and application unit according to claim 2, further comprising an open cell having an average size of: 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material has a thickness of 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm.
4. The container application unit according to claim 3, further comprising an open cell having an average size of mm. 5. The container (2) comprises a body (6), a first end of the body is closed by a base (3), and a second end of the body is by a neck (4). Surrounded by said opening (8) is defined by a free edge of said neck (4), said applicator (10) being located at least partially inside said neck. 1
5. The storage and application unit according to any one of items 1 to 4. 6. The container application unit according to claim 5, wherein the neck has an axis different from the axis (X). 7. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein in the second position the applicator (10) is at least partially compressed inside the container (2). A storage and coating unit according to item 1. 8. The container according to claim 1, wherein the first end protrudes substantially into the interior of the body and is located above a level of the product in the container. 7. The storage and application unit according to 5 or 6. 9. The base (3) includes the body (6).
, Which facilitates contact between the product (P) and the applicator (10) and facilitates introduction of the product into the applicator. The storage and application unit according to claim 8, wherein 10. A housing and application unit according to claim 9, wherein the base is connected to the body (6) via a "bellows" -type mechanism (20). 11. The housing and application unit according to claim 8, wherein the applicator (10) is fixed to a core-type member impregnated in the product. 12. The applicator (10) is fixed to the neck in an intermediate region (9, 11) between the first end (13) and the second end (14), The movement from the first position to the second position corresponds to closing of the opening (8) by the detachable closing means (5).
12. A storage and application unit according to any of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that the portion is located between the application surface (15) and the intermediate region and is axially compressed. . 13. The applicator (10) includes an adhesive,
13. The receiving and applying unit according to claim 12, wherein the receiving and applying unit is fixed to the neck (4) by welding or other suitable means. 14. The applicator (10) is slidably mounted within the neck (4), wherein movement from one of the first position and the second position to the other is the entire applicator. The housing application unit according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the housing application unit is caused by an axial movement of the housing application unit. 15. The applicator (10) is provided with ballast means (24), and when the accommodation and application unit transitions from a “head-up” state to a “head-down” state, the application surface (1) is moved.
5) is the first position, and the application surface is set to the second position by the transition from the “head down” state to the “head up” state of the housing and application unit. A storage and coating unit as described. 16. The applicator (10) is connected to the first
16. A receiving and applying unit according to claim 15, characterized in that it comprises means (24, 25) for locking in position. 17. The first end (13) is disposed near the base (3), wherein the base is axially movable with respect to the body, and wherein the applicator (10) is Means slidably mounted within said neck for selectively varying the axial spacing between said base (3) and said neck (4).
0), whereby the applicator (1)
0) from one of the first position and the second position to the other, wherein the means for retaining the first end of the applicator substantially near the base ( The container application unit according to claim 7, wherein (27) is provided. 18. The base (3) includes a bellows (2).
18. The housing and application unit according to claim 17, wherein the housing and application unit is connected to the body (6) via a part forming (6). 19. The receiving and applying unit according to claim 17, wherein the base is made of a flexible film that can be elastically deformed. 20. The means for selectively changing the axial spacing between the base and the neck comprises a mounting base (29) screwed to the body (6) of the unit (1). ) Is provided.
20. The storage and application unit according to any one of 19 to 19 21. The first of the applicators (10).
The means for holding the end (13) in contact with the base (3) comprises an elastic restoring means (27), wherein a first end of the elastic restoring means is provided on the neck. 21. A method according to claim 17, wherein the second end of the elastic restoring means is pressed against a region (28) fixed to the applicator. A storage and coating unit as described. 22. The container (2) comprises a base (3) opposite the opening (8), the first end (13) being substantially in the vicinity of the base (3). 22. A housing and application unit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first end is arranged in permanent contact with the product (P). 23. The applicator (10) is mounted in the neck via an intermediate member (22) mounted inside the neck (4). 23. The storage and application unit according to any one of 22. 24. The container application unit according to claim 23, wherein the intermediate member (22) is mounted in the neck by snap fitting, screwing, bonding, welding, or the like. 25. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the applicator is mounted to be rotatable about an axis of the applicator or a plane passing through the axis of the applicator. 25. The accommodation and application unit according to any one of 24. 26. A housing and application unit according to claim 1, wherein the applicator (10) is mounted via a rotating mechanism (23). 27. The applicator (10) is a foam selected from polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyether, polyester, NBR (natural rubber), SBR (synthetic rubber), foam and the like. At least one block (1
27. The storage and application unit according to claim 1, wherein the storage and application unit is configured to include: 28. The accommodation and application unit according to claim 1, wherein the applicator contains at least 10% of open cells or semi-open cells. 29. The applicator (10) may be a stack (1) of foam blocks of different types and / or different densities and / or different thicknesses.
The storage and application unit according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the storage and application unit is configured to include: 30. The applicator (10) comprises at least one foam block (12),
At least one block (12 ', 12 ") made of a material selected from a sintered material, a sintered type of polyvinyl chloride, ethylene vinyl acetate, felt, etc.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:
29. The accommodation and application unit according to any one of -28. 31. The method according to claim 1, wherein the application surface has a shape such as concave, convex, flat, oblique, or double oblique. A storage and coating unit as described. 32. The application surface (15) is covered by a woven, perforated plastic or felt type permeable cover, alternatively or in combination with a bristle coating (21). The storage and application unit according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the storage and application unit is covered. 33. The hairy coating (21)
Different diameters and / or different types and / or
Or, it is configured with soft hair fibers of different heights,
33. The housing and coating unit according to claim 32, further comprising a mixture of such soft fiber fibers. 34. The applicator (10) has a narrow channel or one or more slots extending axially through substantially the center of the applicator, thereby providing product application for the applicator. The storage and application unit according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the capacity is increased. 35. The container (2) is made of metal, glass, or a thermoplastic material selected from polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and the like. The housing and coating unit according to any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein: 36. In the container (2) means (16) of the ball type or of the weight type are provided, which promotes the uniformity of the product and the introduction of the applicator. The storage and application unit according to any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the storage and application unit is easy. 37. The applicator (10) is axially free within the neck (4) and at the first end (13) is connected to the base (3) of the container. The housing application unit according to claim 9, wherein the housing application unit is pressed by a spring. 38. A housing and application unit according to claim 1, comprising two applicators mounted in a head-to-tail manner inside the container (2). . 39. The product (P) may be a cosmetic such as a nail paint, a lipstick, an oil, a gel type oil, an adhesive, a correction liquid, or a stain remover,
The storage and application unit according to any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein: